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An exterior photo of the Museum of the City of New York at night.
Landmarks Wednesday, February 27, 2019

History of 1220 Fifth Avenue

The Museum has called 1220 Fifth Avenue home since 1932, but our first home was at Gracie Mansion where the mayor of NYC resides today. Learn about the fascinating history of our beautiful building at the top of Museum Mile.
A photo of the 1881 J.A. Bluxome @ Co. advertisement at the Museum.
Streetscapes Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Shopping in the Late 19th Century

With the Midtown flagship stores of Lord & Taylor and Henri Bendel both closing their doors, we take a look back at the shops in the Ladies’ Mile shopping district of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Wurts Bros photo of Senator Clark's mansion on 960 Fifth Avenue courtesy from the museum.
Streetscapes Tuesday, August 14, 2018

William A. Clark Mansion

Copper magnate William S. Clark Sr. built one of the most egregious examples of Gilded Age excess. The mansion that once stood at 960 Fifth Avenue boasted 121 rooms, 31 baths, four art galleries, a swimming pool, and even an underground rail line!
A museum photo by Jacob A. Riis of kids playing by the water taken in 1895.
Landmarks Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Hitting the Beach in the 19th Century

Fleeing the steamy city streets for the beach is not a new phenomenon. Take an escape to the summertime retreats of years past and see how New Yorkers used to beat the heat…despite the heavy layers of clothing!
A museum photo by Edwin Martin of a 1998, Easter Parade.
Streetscapes Tuesday, March 27, 2018

New York City Easter Parade

Easter in New York has become synonymous with a pageant of people marching down Fifth Avenue, many wearing large over-the-top hats. Learn how the Easter parade became the “fashion promenade” it is today.